1. Witness life transformation. I am blessed to watch some dynamic life transformations take place.  I used to say that I wanted to be an international evangelist.  I am just happy to be a local pastor who preaches the Word, and watches lives transform.  Nothing beats that.

2. Ministry of Presence. I am blessed to be invited to be part of the families’ sacred moments.  I have the humbling privilege of being there right after a baby has been delivered; Enroll new corps adherents and soldiers; Perform weddings as couples’ start a new life together; being present when people are lingering at the threshold of leaving this world for the next; Consoling and comforting families during times of bereavement and leading funeral and/or memorial services.

3. Foolishness of Preaching – Paul commanded Timothy to “preach the word” (2 Tim. 4:2). I have the privilege each Sunday of proclaiming God’s message to His people – a message of grace, by which God saves people and transforms lives. The gospel is the greatest news ever sent. This is my first passion and love in ministry – proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ.

4. Walking Alongside Others. I absolutely am blessed to equip people through discipleship.  It is an amazing journey of discovery as people read the Bible on their own, for the first time.  It is a privilege to be an accountability partner to someone who is blossoming in their prayer life.

5. Diversity of Ministry Opportunities. Various doors open for me as a pastor.  I am blessed when I eat lunch with homeless man or have dinner at a wealthy family’s mansion.

• I have the honor of playing soccer with elementary children outside of my office, and then followed by a discussion about the heaven with a 95 year old senior.
• I have the blessing of serving adults living with disabilities, followed by an intellectual meeting with the local College President.
• In a single day, I can be in a meeting with a social services client who is seeking a box of food to feed her family; ending the day in the County Supervisor’s office discussing the multi-million dollar Capital Campaign plans.

6. Paid to Read the Bible and to pray. How many people can say that about their places of employment?  In today’s environment, it has become a rare privilege and opportunity to read the Bible at the office.  I can pray for and with a homeless man in the hallway. Or pray with a lady of the streets out in the parking lot.

7. Spiritual Shrink. Although I do not have a couch in my office, many people of all ages ask me for advice on spiritual topics.  The young adult will seek counsel on matters of faith and ministry.   The struggling couple asks for points on how to keep their marriage off the rocks.  The men will seek advice on overcoming plaguing addictions.

I love …

• Receiving an encouraging email after a tough day.
• Having coffee with someone contemplating joining the pastorate
• Receiving a hug of gratitude from struggling veteran
• Receiving a warm “Thank You” from a grateful single mom
• Enjoying a delicious dinner with a jovial A.R.C. beneficiary who just gave his life over to Jesus!
• Reading a letter from an old time soldier who is being blessed through her discipleship group. Despite many years in church, for the first time, she can now say she is following Christ with her whole heart!

These are just some of the reasons why I am overjoyed to be a pastor.